Glenohumeral deformity in children with brachial plexus birth injuries

Abstract

Shoulder deformity remains the most common musculo-skeletal sequela following a brachial plexus birth injury. The natural history of untreated glenohumeral deformity is one of progression in this unique patient population. In infants and young children with persistent neurological deficits, shoulder dysfunction becomes a major source of morbidity, as these children have extreme difficulty placing the hand in space. The functional limitations due to muscle denervation and the resultant periarticular soft tissue contractures and progressive osseous deformities have been well-characterized. Increasing attention is being given to the glenohumeral dysplasia (GHD) and the associated prevalence of early posterior dislocation of the shoulder in infants with brachial plexus birth injuries. GHD represents a spectrum of findings, including glenoid and humeral head articular incongruities and dysplasia, subluxation, and frank dislocation. This article presents our comprehensive, temporally-based management strategies for the glenohumeral joint deformities in these children utilizing soft tissue and bony reconstructive procedures.